Poll: Energy Legislation Has Widespread Support

As health care reform faces increasing public skepticism, another leading element of the Democratic agenda — energy legislation — has maintained strong support. A new Washington Post-ABC News poll finds that nearly twice as many Americans support as oppose the energy policy being crafted by President Obama and Congress.

According to the poll, 57 percent of Americans back the proposed changes, with 29 percent opposing them.

And in a debate that has centered largely on the economic impact of cap-and-trade legislation, the most reassuring numbers for the administration might come on the jobs front, where 36 percent of respondents said energy legislation would add jobs in their states, while just 15 percent said it would take away jobs. The plurality — 42 percent — said it would have no impact on jobs.

But support becomes fickle when higher energy costs enter the picture. Although 58 percent would support new legislation if it cost them $10 per month, that number drops to 39 percent if the cost increases to $25. Which means that the equivalent cost of four Big Macs could make or break climate legislation.

If you think the health care propaganda battle has been vicious, wait until the cap-and-trade fight starts in earnest.